UAE: Expat Workers can Start Own Business
Abu Dhabi -- Workers and professionals can now start their own businesses without losing their jobs or changing their visas, said a top official at the Ministry of Labour.

Humaid bin Deemas, acting general manager of the ministry, told Khaleej Times that the decision was taken by Minister of Labour Saqer Saeed Ghobash on Wednesday.

It will allow expatriates who work in the private sector to set up their own business or become partners in a new company.

This decision replaces the old rule obligating any expatriate worker who wanted to start his business to cancel his visa and labour card at the ministry and get an investor visa.Bin Deemas said that the new decision would open more opportunities for workers in the country.

Expatriates who start their own business will, however, won't be allowed to work in the companies they set up with local partners.